A monkey pod tree along Punahou St.
Good Morning, God!
Just as seeing the Kolea brightens my day, so do the monkey pod trees bring me joy. There is something about their shape that just makes me happy.
I like to think, God, that they make You happy, too. In Psalm One the folks who love and follow in Your Ways are compared to Trees. Furthermore, they are Trees planted by streams of water, whose leaves will not wither. They are called Trees who will bring forth fruit in their season.
The Fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. (Galations 5:22-23). You know, God, I always forget about that “longsuffering” fruit. Now we translate it as patience or forbearance.
But, I once saw an image of our now lush tree-filled Nuuanu Valley — completely deforested! The photo was taken back in 1900. There was not a single tree. Only grass. It was so sad, God. Truly, I believe the Land itself was suffering. Certainly, the ability of the land to absorb and hold rain water was badly damaged. Trees are so important, God, to the health of the land and thus to our health.
Hmm. The Land was both suffering and patient. But, the Land was also forgiving. We (the Territory) declared it watershed land and planted trees. And the Land recovered its health. So, maybe, that “longsuffering” fruit — is sort of a willingness to begin again? A willingness to have TREES OF RIGHTEOUSNESS planted? A willingness to BECOME A TREE?
We need More Trees, God! We need Both real trees and people that You will call Trees. Trees of both sorts bring Joy!
Story teller,
A Moment with God 
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